1
And it came to pass a second time, that Joseph and Mary were asked by the people that Jesus should be taught His letters in school. They did not refuse to do so; and according to the commandment of the elders, they took Him to a master to be instructed in human learning.
2
Then the master began to teach Him in an imperious tone, saying: Say Alpha.
3
And Jesus said to him: Tell me first what Betha is, and I will tell you what Alpha is.
4
And upon this the master got angry and struck Jesus; and no sooner had he struck Him, than he fell down dead. And Jesus went home again to His mother.
5
And Joseph, being afraid, called Mary to him, and said to her: Know of a surety that my soul is sorrowful even unto death on account of this child.
6
For it is very likely that at some time or other some one will strike him in malice, and he will die. But Mary answered and said:
7
O man of God! Do not believe that this is possible.
8
You may believe to a certainty that He who has sent him to be born among men will Himself guard him from all mischief, and will in His own name preserve him from evil.